Pakistan Looks to Deepen Defence Ties With Bangladesh, Eyes JF-17 Fighter Jet Deal

Post by : Saif

Pakistan is moving to strengthen its defence relationship with Bangladesh, with discussions now underway about a possible military cooperation pact and the sale of JF-17 Thunder fighter jets. The talks reflect changing regional ties and Pakistan’s growing ambition to become a major arms supplier.

Senior air force leaders from both countries recently met in Islamabad. During these talks, Pakistan offered Bangladesh its JF-17 Thunder fighter aircraft, a multi-role combat jet jointly developed by Pakistan and China. The aircraft is already a key part of Pakistan’s air force and has been sold to other countries in recent years.

Along with fighter jets, Pakistan also assured Bangladesh of faster delivery of Super Mushshak trainer aircraft. These planes are used to train new pilots. Pakistan said it would also provide full training support and long-term maintenance, which could help Bangladesh modernize its air force more smoothly.

These defence discussions come at a time when relations between Pakistan and Bangladesh are warming after many years of distance. Political changes in Bangladesh since 2024 have altered its foreign policy direction. Ties with India weakened after mass protests led to the exit of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, while engagement with Pakistan has increased.

Since then, the two countries have resumed direct trade for the first time since 1971. Military officials from both sides have also met several times, signaling a clear effort to rebuild cooperation that had remained limited for decades.

Bangladesh is currently under an interim administration and is preparing for national elections next month. The political transition has opened space for new regional partnerships, including closer defence links with Pakistan.

For Pakistan, the talks are part of a broader strategy to expand weapons exports. The JF-17 Thunder has become the backbone of Pakistan’s defence manufacturing program. It has already been included in defence deals with countries such as Azerbaijan and Libya. Officials believe the aircraft’s performance in recent regional conflicts has improved its global appeal.

Pakistan’s leadership sees defence exports as a way to boost the national economy. The defence minister recently said that rising demand for Pakistani-made weapons could significantly improve the country’s financial position.

If a deal with Bangladesh goes ahead, it would mark a major step in South Asian defence cooperation. It would also signal Bangladesh’s intent to diversify its military suppliers while strengthening ties with Islamabad.

As talks continue, the possible agreement highlights how political shifts, regional security needs, and economic goals are reshaping defence relationships in South Asia.

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